Traditional grammar is no longer acceptable as an exhaustive, scientific theory of grammar. An analysis of research results from the linguistic sciences provides guidelines for developing a modern grammar. (AM)

Defines and discusses the concept of small languages. Topics addressed include political status; official status (e.g., as a national language); distinctiveness; robustness or the degree of feasibility; social function; education to support the language; functions of literacy; and appropriate technology for use with particular languages. (12…

Discussion of the preservation of language and culture in small linguistic societies focuses on Iceland. The history of the Icelandic language is explained, problems with translation from English are described, the use of native languages in education is discussed, and the role of the English language is considered. (LRW)

Examines the contributions of linguistic research and linguistic theory to the teaching of languages proposinq a reevaluation of pedagogic concepts and models. Argues that so far theorists have ignored some important aspects of language, such as the esthetic and expressive elements of discourse, the situational constraints and the semantic…

After a terminological clarification, this article discusses several aspects relevant to the development of a multilingual model of second and foreign language teaching: the importance of the student's native language, the relative effectiveness of monolingual and bilingual instruction, and communicative survival and cultural competence needs in…

This report offers a conceptual model for use with language minority children who are entering a new school when they must acquire the language of the majority student population. The model has four development components or processes: sociocultural, linguistic, academic, and cognitive. These four components are described in detail. Research is…

Neither grammar-translation methods in foreign language learning nor the subsequent emphasis on spoken language paid sufficient attention to the importance of fluent reading with comprehension in a foreign language. However, the introduction of new means of testing, notably by multiple-choice questions, stimulated renewed interest in the…

The view that foreign language study contributes significantly to literacy in the native language is discussed from the perspectives of a foreign language teacher who also teaches English composition. It is suggested that there is a need for research and publications on the benefits of second language study on native language growth and on…

Two policy documents supporting education for ethnolinguistic or socioeconomic minorities in Catalonia are examined, identifying underlying assumptions and the views of cultural diversity implicit in them. It is concluded that the policy is formulated vaguely, incorporates contradictory statements, and neglects learners' first languages. Further…

This report summarizes advances in bilingual education that help linguistically and culturally diverse (LCD) students reach high levels of achievement and performance. Factors to be considered include the native language, bilingualism and academic achievement, curriculum, parental and community influences, and programmatic evaluation. The reports…

Discusses the different varieties of Spanish, the decision of which variety to teach to native speakers, and the concept of a "standard" usage. Basing the decision on sociolinguistic research, this article proposes a spoken and written variety of Spanish to be employed in teaching native speakers in the United States. (Author/JL)

In light of the articles in this issue, this article discusses the role that language planning plays in the building of communities and nations, focusing on American Indian language and bilingual education. Also examined is the impact of the Native American Languages Act on the maintenance of indigenous language and cultural resources. (four…

Examines the background and roots of the Welsh language and how it is being kept in existence and its usage increased. The maintenance of the Welsh language through literature, education, and journalism is described; radio and television broadcasting in Welsh is reviewed; and other influences are examined. (12 references) (LRW)

Presents and evaluates the arguments and research evidence for and against mother tongue (MT) use in bilingual classrooms. The article endorses the claim that MT use bolsters second- language development, cognitive development, and content learning. Bourke's response focuses on arguments for and against MT use, recent research on MT use, and…

Supports the theory of language policy formulation in a "conflict" paradigm (involving value, resources, and power) with a case example of the development of Ontario's Native language policy. Research and theory were applied to policy formulation when there was significant consensus regarding both societal and educational goals. (CB)